Here, painting was done and the sky was added. This one was from a photograph (Fig.11b).

Fig: 11b

Then, I added some curves and a vignette to brighten some areas and darken others. I used RGB matte passes to have accurate selections (Fig.11c).

Fig: 11c

Next I did some color corrections, using color balance and a curve again. I wanted to match the mood in ''The Opium Smoker" image. I felt that this orange-reddish tint would give the feeling of heat and sand I was looking for. I wanted the scene to convey very hot and dry weather outside, and the bathhouse as a shelter, providing fresh water and shade (Fig.11d).

Fig: 11d

Fig.11e shows the final touches; the light beams were painted in screen mode.

Fig: 11e

Conclusion

Finally, I was very happy with the result. During the whole creation process of this work, I often doubted I would see the end of it, and was never certain it would be a happy ending. I'm glad I persevered. Thank you very much and I hope you enjoyed my work.

I must also thank everybody that encouraged me, especially the ones who participated; Samuel Jacques for the little Moroccan table model and his abundant travel pictures from Iran. Dominique Grandmont for the Shisha model, the Morsy brothers for their contagious enthusiasm and great ideas, and Mr. Fraser for arguing with me!